ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Popping out from the front lawn of a historic St. Pete home, the flower petals of a giant pink trumpet tree draw out crowds and stop dog walkers and bicyclists in their tracks every year.
People come to visit the Tabebuia tree in the historic Old Northeast Neighborhood during the spring months when the flowers are at the peak of their blooming season.
The tree is commonly called a "pink trumpet tree" because of its rose-colored bell-shaped petals. It’s native to Caribbean countries and can be grown in Central and South Florida, according to the University of Florida.
People taking a scenic bike ride down the brick roads or walking along Coffee Pot Bayou to spot manatees make sure to stop by the tree to appreciate its beauty.
Artists gather at the tree for inspiration, painting scenes of a massive flower canopy that compliments the home in its background.
Over the years, the property has gone through several homeowners who say they’ve come to accept and appreciate the community’s response to the tree’s beauty.
Visitors should still be mindful that the tree is on private property and stay on the public walkways, instead of stepping onto the yard.
